Identificación de microorganismos entéricos en áreas de preparación y consumo de alimentos / Identification of enteric microorganisms in food preparation and consumption areas / Identificação de microrganismos entéricos em áreas de preparação e consumo de alimentos

La contaminación de las áreas de preparación al entrar en contacto con los alimentos crudos o cocinados, es por esto que una de las principales causas de la contaminación de las superficies inertes es la inadecuada manipulación de los alimentos a la hora de ser preparados. Con el objetivo de controlar la aplicación de normas de higiene en las áreas de preparación y consumo de alimentos mediante análisis microbiológicos para disminuir los riesgos de contaminación alimentaria. Esta investigación es de carácter descriptivo, en la cual se realizó una inspección visual del establecimiento con el propósito de evaluar las condiciones higiénicas sanitarias, mediante la aplicación de la Guía Técnica para el Análisis Microbiológico de Superficies en contacto con Alimentos y Bebidas. Para el análisis microbiológico de las muestras se emplearon las técnicas de inoculación, método de estriado, aislamiento bacteriano, tinción diferencial y utilización de las pruebas bioquímicas como: TSI, SIM, Citrato de Simmons, Urea, Lisina, Catalasa y Oxidasa, además de la utilización de medios de cultivo selectivo y diferencial como agar EMB y agar MacConkey para la identificación de bacterias entéricas como: E. coli, Salmonella, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella, Pseudomona aeruginosa. Los resultados arrojaron que la frecuencia bacteriana de las superficies inertes de los restaurantes en el área de preparación de alimentos (mesón y tabla de picar) tienen presencia de bacterias: Salmonella con mayor frecuencia; E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae y Pseudomonas aeruginosa de mediana frecuencia y de baja para Shigella, y en el área de consumo de alimentos (mesas) la bacteria de mayor frecuencia es la E. coli y Shigella, la Klebsiella pneumoniae de mediana y Pseudomona aeruginosa se encuentra en baja frecuencia. Se llegó a la conclusión que las superficies inertes tanto en el área de preparación como en el área de consumo de alimentos se encuentran contaminados por lo que hay un riesgo de infección alimentaria para los comensales de la Universidad Técnica de Machala.

Contamination of preparation areas when coming into contact with raw or cooked foods, which is why one of the main causes of contamination of inert surfaces is inadequate handling of food when it is being prepared. With the aim of controlling the application of hygiene standards in the areas of food preparation and consumption through microbiological analysis to reduce the risks of food contamination. This research is descriptive in nature, in which a visual inspection of the establishment was carried out with the purpose of evaluating the sanitary and hygienic conditions, through the application of the Technical Guide for the Microbiological Analysis of Surfaces in Contact with Food and Beverages. For the microbiological analysis of the samples, inoculation techniques, streaking method, bacterial isolation, differential staining and use of biochemical tests such as: TSI, SIM, Simmons Citrate, Urea, Lysine, Catalase and Oxidase, in addition to use of selective and differential culture media such as EMB agar and MacConkey agar for the identification of enteric bacteria such as: E. coli, Salmonella, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella, Pseudomona aeruginosa. The results showed that the bacterial frequency of the inert surfaces of the restaurants in the food preparation area (counter and cutting board) have the presence of bacteria: Salmonella more frequently; E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa of medium frequency and low frequency for Shigella, and in the food consumption area (tables) the most frequent bacteria are E. coli and Shigella, Klebsiella pneumoniae of medium and Pseudomona aeruginosa It is at low frequency. It was concluded that the inert surfaces in both the preparation area and the food consumption area are contaminated, so there is a risk of food infection for diners at the Technical University of Machala

Contaminação das áreas de preparo ao entrar em contato com alimentos crus ou cozidos, por isso uma das principais causas de contaminação de superfícies inertes é o manuseio inadequado dos alimentos no momento do preparo. Com o objetivo de controlar a aplicação de padrões de higiene nas áreas de preparação e consumo de alimentos através de análises microbiológicas para reduzir os riscos de contaminação alimentar. Esta pesquisa é de natureza descritiva, na qual foi realizada uma inspeção visual do estabelecimento com a finalidade de avaliar as condições sanitárias e higiênicas, por meio da aplicação do Guia Técnico para Análise Microbiológica de Superfícies em Contato com Alimentos e Bebidas. Para a análise microbiológica das amostras foram utilizadas técnicas de inoculação, método de estrias, isolamento bacteriano, coloração diferencial e utilização de testes bioquímicos como: TSI, SIM, Citrato de Simmons, Ureia, Lisina, Catalase e Oxidase, além de utilização de testes seletivos e diferenciais. meios de cultura como ágar EMB e ágar MacConkey para identificação de bactérias entéricas como: E. coli, Salmonella, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella, Pseudomona aeruginosa. Os resultados mostraram que a frequência bacteriana das superfícies inertes dos restaurantes na área de preparo de alimentos (balcão e tábua de corte) apresentam com maior frequência a presença de bactérias: Salmonella; E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae e Pseudomonas aeruginosa de média frequência e baixa frequência para Shigella, e na área de consumo alimentar (tabelas) as bactérias mais frequentes são E. coli e Shigella, Klebsiella pneumoniae de média e Pseudomona aeruginosa Está em baixa frequência. Concluiu-se que as superfícies inertes tanto na área de preparação como na área de consumo de alimentos estão contaminadas, pelo que existe risco de infecção alimentar para os comensais da Universidade Técnica de Machala

Identificación de microorganismos entéricos en áreas de preparación y consumo de alimentos

La contaminación de las áreas de preparación al entrar en contacto con los alimentos crudos o cocinados, es por esto que una de las principales causas de la contaminación de las superficies inertes es la inadecuada manipulación de los alimentos a la hora de ser preparados. Con el objetivo de controlar la aplicación de normas de higiene en las áreas de preparación y consumo de alimentos mediante análisis microbiológicos para disminuir los riesgos de contaminación alimentaria. Esta investigación es de carácter descriptivo, en la cual se realizó una inspección visual del establecimiento con el propósito de evaluar las condiciones higiénicas sanitarias, mediante la aplicación de la Guía Técnica para el Análisis Microbiológico de Superficies en contacto con Alimentos y Bebidas. Para el análisis microbiológico de las muestras se emplearon las técnicas de inoculación, método de estriado, aislamiento bacteriano, tinción diferencial y utilización de las pruebas bioquímicas como: TSI, SIM, Citrato de Simmons, Urea, Lisina, Catalasa y Oxidasa, además de la utilización de medios de cultivo selectivo y diferencial como agar EMB y agar MacConkey para la identificación de bacterias entéricas como: E. coli, Salmonella, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella, Pseudomona aeruginosa. Los resultados arrojaron que la frecuencia bacteriana de las superficies inertes de los restaurantes en el área de preparación de alimentos (mesón y tabla de picar) tienen presencia de bacterias: Salmonella con mayor frecuencia; E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae y Pseudomonas aeruginosa de mediana frecuencia y de baja para Shigella, y en el área de consumo de alimentos (mesas) la bacteria de mayor frecuencia es la E. coli y Shigella, la Klebsiella pneumoniae de mediana y Pseudomona aeruginosa se encuentra en baja frecuencia. Se llegó a la conclusión que las superficies inertes tanto en el área de preparación como en el área de consumo de alimentos se encuentran contaminados por lo que hay un riesgo de infección alimentaria para los comensales de la Universidad Técnica de Machala.

Contamination of preparation areas when coming into contact with raw or cooked foods, which is why one of the main causes of contamination of inert surfaces is inadequate handling of food when it is being prepared. With the aim of controlling the application of hygiene standards in the areas of food preparation and consumption through microbiological analysis to reduce the risks of food contamination. This research is descriptive in nature, in which a visual inspection of the establishment was carried out with the purpose of evaluating the sanitary and hygienic conditions, through the application of the Technical Guide for the Microbiological Analysis of Surfaces in Contact with Food and Beverages. For the microbiological analysis of the samples, inoculation techniques, streaking method, bacterial isolation, differential staining and use of biochemical tests such as: TSI, SIM, Simmons Citrate, Urea, Lysine, Catalase and Oxidase, in addition to use of selective and differential culture media such as EMB agar and MacConkey agar for the identification of enteric bacteria such as: E. coli, Salmonella, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella, Pseudomona aeruginosa. The results showed that the bacterial frequency of the inert surfaces of the restaurants in the food preparation area (counter and cutting board) have the presence of bacteria: Salmonella more frequently; E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa of medium frequency and low frequency for Shigella, and in the food consumption area (tables) the most frequent bacteria are E. coli and Shigella, Klebsiella pneumoniae of medium and Pseudomona aeruginosa It is at low frequency. It was concluded that the inert surfaces in both the preparation area and the food consumption area are contaminated, so there is a risk of food infection for diners at the Technical University of Machala.

Contaminação das áreas de preparo ao entrar em contato com alimentos crus ou cozidos, por isso uma das principais causas de contaminação de superfícies inertes é o manuseio inadequado dos alimentos no momento do preparo. Com o objetivo de controlar a aplicação de padrões de higiene nas áreas de preparação e consumo de alimentos através de análises microbiológicas para reduzir os riscos de contaminação alimentar. Esta pesquisa é de natureza descritiva, na qual foi realizada uma inspeção visual do estabelecimento com a finalidade de avaliar as condições sanitárias e higiênicas, por meio da aplicação do Guia Técnico para Análise Microbiológica de Superfícies em Contato com Alimentos e Bebidas. Para a análise microbiológica das amostras foram utilizadas técnicas de inoculação, método de estrias, isolamento bacteriano, coloração diferencial e utilização de testes bioquímicos como: TSI, SIM, Citrato de Simmons, Ureia, Lisina, Catalase e Oxidase, além de utilização de testes seletivos e diferenciais. meios de cultura como ágar EMB e ágar MacConkey para identificação de bactérias entéricas como: E. coli, Salmonella, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella, Pseudomona aeruginosa. Os resultados mostraram que a frequência bacteriana das superfícies inertes dos restaurantes na área de preparo de alimentos (balcão e tábua de corte) apresentam com maior frequência a presença de bactérias: Salmonella; E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae e Pseudomonas aeruginosa de média frequência e baixa frequência para Shigella, e na área de consumo alimentar (tabelas) as bactérias mais frequentes são E. coli e Shigella, Klebsiella pneumoniae de média e Pseudomona aeruginosa Está em baixa frequência . Concluiu-se que as superfícies inertes tanto na área de preparação como na área de consumo de alimentos estão contaminadas, pelo que existe risco de infecção alimentar para os comensais da Universidade Técnica de Machala.

Higienização de ambiente em agroindústria familiar de embutidos cárneos / Environmental hygienization in family meat product

A higienização é um procedimento importante na indústria de alimentos e sua realização deve ocorrer rotineiramente para evitar que os alimentos sejam contaminados. Além disso, todos os manipuladores de alimentos devem receber treinamentos de modo a entender como ocorrem as contaminações e como evitá-las, para que não ocorra deterioração antecipada dos alimentos e para que não exponham os consumidores ao risco de doenças transmitidas por alimentos em caso de contaminação. Esta pesquisa avaliou o processo de higienização e sua eficiência em superfícies presentes em uma agroindústria da agricultura familiar produtora de embutidos cárneos. Apesar de ter instalações adequadas a agroindústria apresentava inadequações quanto aos produtos utilizados e a frequência inadequada para uma higienização eficiente. Foi realizada análise microbiológica das superfícies dos equipamentos para contagem de aeróbios mesófilos e notou-se uma elevada carga microbiana que indicou uma baixa eficiência no processo de higienização. Sugeriu-se melhorias na higiene ambiental associado à instrução dos colaboradores, para contribuir na promoção da qualidade dos produtos, aumento dos lucros e salvaguardando a saúde do consumidor.

Hygiene is an important procedure in the food industry, and its performance must occur routinely to prevent food from being contaminated. In addition, all food handlers must receive training in order to understand how contamination occurs and how to avoid it, so that there is no anticipated deterioration of food and that consumers are not exposed to the risk of foodborne diseases. in case of contamination by pathogenic microorganisms. Thus, this research evaluated the cleaning process and its efficiency on surfaces present in a family farming agroindustry that produces meat products, which despite having adequate facilities, had some difficulties such as product use and inadequate frequency for eficiente cleaning. After performing a microbiological analysis to count surface mesophilic aerobes, a high level of contamination was noted, relating to low efficiency in the cleaning process. Improvements in environmental hygiene are suggested, associated with the instruction of employees for the implementation of the Standard Operating Hygiene Procedure, promoting improvements in product quality, increasing profits and safeguarding consumer health.

Influence of kaolin and red clay on ceramic specimen properties when galvanic sludge is incorporated to encapsulate heavy metals.

This study presented the influence of two types of clay: kaolin (Kao) and red clay (RC) on the chemical and physical properties of ceramic specimens when galvanic sludge (GS) is incorporated to encapsulate heavy metals. Samples were obtained of GS from the industrial district of Manaus - Amazonas State, Brazil, and kaolin (Kao), and red clay (RC) from the Central Amazon. A fourth sample was prepared by mixing GS, Kao, and RC in the ratio 1:1:8 (GS + Kao + RC). This mixture was ground, and ceramic specimens were prepared, and heat treated at 950 °C and 1200 °C for three hours for phase detection, compressive strength, leaching of Fe, Ni and Cr metals and life cycle assessment. Galvanic sludge, Kao, and RC were also, and heat treated to at 950 °C and 1200 °C for three hours, obtaining GS950, GS1200, Kao950, Kao1200, RC950, and RC1200. The samples were submitted to XRF, XRD, Rietveld refinement, Mössbauer spectroscopy, TG/DTG/DSC, and SEM. The results show that the formation of nickel oxide and a spinel solid solution of the type Fe3+{Fe1-y3+,Fe1-x2+,Nix2+,Cry3+}O4 (in which [] = tetrahedral site, {} octahedral site) occurs in GS1200, which is caused by sulfate decomposition to SO2. At 1200 °C, heavy metals are encapsulated, forming other phases such as nickel silicate and hematite. Life cycle assessment was used to verify the sustainability and value of GS in clay for making bricks, and it indicated that the production of ceramics is feasible, reduces the use of clays, and is sustainable.

Evaluation of different mechanical cleaning protocols associated with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite in the removal of residues from the post space.

Aims: This study evaluated the effectiveness of different mechanical protocols using rotary brush (RB), ultrasonic tip, and oscillatory system (OS) associated with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) in the removal of residues and dentin permeability in the cervical and apical segments of the post space. Settings and Design: Experimental in vitro study. Methods: Forty roots from human first molars were prepared and divided into four groups according to the cleaning protocols: Control (CO), NaOCl 2.5% conventional irrigation with a syringe; RB associated with NaOCl 2.5%; ultrasonic tip (US) associated with NaOCl 2.5%; OS associated with NaOCl 2.5%. Statistical Analysis Used: The persistence of residues was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy and data submitted to Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests, and dentin permeability evaluated by confocal microscopy and date submitted to ANOVA one-way and Tukey's tests (P = 0.05). Results: There were no differences in residue cleaning among the CO, RB, US, and OS groups, regardless of the analyzed root segment (P > 0.05). When comparing groups, dentin permeability in the CO group was significantly lower in the cervical segment (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The OS group promoted the highest permeability value in the apical segment. RB, US, and OS are similar in removing residues from the post space. However, OS results in higher dentin permeability in the apical segment.

Enhancing mouthguard longevity: Impact of surface treatment against aging from brushing and disinfectant exposure.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The study aimed to assess the surface characteristics of sports mouthguards under mechanical stresses during cleaning, either by brushing or immersion in disinfectant solutions. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Ethylene-vinyl acetate samples, 4 mm thick, were randomly assigned to cleaning methods: control (C-no cleaning), brushing with water (B.W), brushing with neutral liquid soap (B.S), brushing with toothpaste (B.T), immersion in distilled water for 10 min (I.W), immersion in 2.25% sodium hypochlorite solution for 10 min (I.SH), and immersion in sodium bicarbonate solution for 5 min (I.SB). All cleaning methods were applied for 28 days. Surface roughness average (Ra) and wettability were measured at baseline for the control group (n = 9), and after cleaning for all the other groups. RESULTS: One-way ANOVA with Tukey tests (5% significance) indicated significant differences among groups (p < .05). The I.SB group had higher surface roughness than B.S and B.T (p < .05). B.W showed the lowest wettability, significantly lower than B.T, I.W, and I.SB (p < .05). I.SB exhibited the highest wettability, significantly different from sodium hypochlorite, neutral liquid soap, brushing with water, and control groups (p < .05). The sodium bicarbonate immersion group (I.SB) demonstrated greater statistical variation, displaying higher susceptibility to aging compared to brushing with neutral liquid soap. CONCLUSION: Cleaning mouthguards with a toothbrush, water, and neutral liquid soap emerged as the most promising method, causing minimal surface changes in the material.

Cleaning of direct compression continuous manufacturing equipment through displacement of API residues by excipients.

This feasibility study evaluates a cleaning process designed to avoid the use of detergents and reduce operator exposure to the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). The continuous manufacturing equipment was cleaned using excipients to displace ibuprofen residues from the system. The cleaning process was performed using 3.0 kg of Prosolv® and 3.0 kg of Tablettose® 70. The impact of different volumetric feed rates of the cleaning excipient was assessed. The displacement of API and blend residues was evaluated with in-line near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to evaluate the cleaning progress as the Prosolv® flowed through the feeder, mixer and stream sampler. In-place Raman spectra were acquired from the material sticking to detect the ibuprofen residues. The study showed that Prosolv® and Tablettose® can remove ibuprofen residues effectively from the hopper, feeder screw, mixer paddles, shaft and stream sampler. The Process Analytical Technology (PAT) system can be utilized to detect API displacement during the cleaning process. However, dismantling and manual cleaning was required to remove material sticking at the surfaces adjacent to the rotating feeder screws and mixer paddles.

Occupational risk assessment of glutaraldehyde through personal air monitoring in a hospital setting.

Glutaraldehyde is a high-efficiency disinfectant that has been included in the protocols of some hospitals for controlling the spread of SARS-CoV-2, together with sodium hypochlorite and quaternary ammonium disinfectants. However, exposure has been poorly studied in workplace settings, despite the association between glutaraldehyde and respiratory diseases and skin conditions in exposed workers. This study evaluated the magnitude of exposure associated with the use of glutaraldehyde in healthcare workers across various work areas of a first level of Hospital-Based Care in Colombia. Workers were classified into similar exposure groups (SEGs) based on work areas and tasks performed, and airborne concentrations of glutaraldehyde were measured in different work areas of each SEG through direct monitoring. The 95th percentile of glutaraldehyde concentrations in all SEGs studied exceeded the TLV-C immediately after use. Cleaning workers and nurses had the highest exposures to glutaraldehyde. Results indicate that workers were overexposed and highlight the need to implement controls to reduce exposure. The high-exposure levels also raise the need to consider glutaraldehyde substitution and adequate use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Contamination of equipment and surfaces in the operating room anesthesia workspace: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Contamination of the breathing circuit and medication preparation surface of an anesthesia machine can increase the risk of cross-infection. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the contamination of the anesthetic medication preparation surface, respiratory circuits, and devices used in general anesthesia with assisted mechanical ventilation. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted at the surgical center of a philanthropic hospital, of medium complexity located in the municipality of Três Lagoas, in the eastern region of the State of Mato Grosso do Sul. METHODS: Eighty-two microbiological samples were collected from the breathing circuits. After repeating the samples in different culture media, 328 analyses were performed. RESULTS: A higher occurrence of E. coli, Enterobacter spp., Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pneumoniae (P < 0.001) were observed. Variations were observed depending on the culture medium and sample collection site. CONCLUSION: The study findings underscore the inadequate disinfection of the inspiratory and expiratory branches, highlighting the importance of stringent cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces.

Cleaning symbiosis in coral reefs of Jardines de la Reina National Park.

Background: Cleaning symbiotic interactions are an important component of coral reef biodiversity and the study of the characteristics of these interacting species networks allows to assess the health of communities. The coral reefs of Jardines de la Reina National Park (JRNP) are subject to a protection gradient and there is a lack of knowledge about the effect of different levels of protection on the cleaning mutualistic networks in the area. The present study aims to characterize the mutualistic cleaning networks in the reefs of JRNP and to assess the potential effect of the protection gradient on their characteristics. Methods: We visited 26 reef sites distributed along the National Park and performed 96 band transects (50 m × 4 m). Low, medium and highly protected regions were compared according to the number of cleaning stations and the abundance and number of species of clients and cleaners associated with them. Additionally, we built interaction networks for the three regions and the entire archipelago based on a total of 150 minutes' video records of active cleaning stations. We assessed ecological networks characteristics (specialization, nestedness) using network topological metrics. Results: We found a high diversity and complex cleaning interaction network with 6 cleaner species and 39 client species, among them, the threatened grouper Epinephelus striatus was one of the most common clients. No clear effect of the protection level on the density, abundance or diversity of cleaners and clients was detected during this study. However, we found that the network structure varied among regions, with the highly protected region being more specialized and less nested than the other regions. Our research reveals some patterns that suggest the effect of fishing pressure on cleaning symbiosis, as fishing may reduce the abundance and composition of client species, especially those that are targeted by fishers. However, fishing pressure may not be the main factor influencing cleaning symbiosis inside of the National Park, as other factors, such as habitat quality or environmental conditions may have stronger effects on the demand for cleaning services and the interactions between cleaners and clients. Our research provides insights into the factors that influence cleaning symbiosis and its implications for coral reef conservation and management.

Microbiological environmental contamination in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit / Contaminação ambiental microbiológica em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Pediátrica / Contaminación ambiental microbiológica en una Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos

Background and objectives: inanimate surfaces and equipment in the hospital environment are considered reservoirs of resistant and pathogenic microorganisms. In Pediatric Intensive Care Units, the risk of infection is also related to the severity of pathologies associated with the immaturity of the immune system of this population. This study aimed to investigate microbiological environmental contamination in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Method: this is an exploratory cross-sectional study, carried out in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of a highly complex university hospital, located in southern Brazil. To assess environmental contamination, sterile swabs were rubbed on surfaces corresponding to the patient unit and in the common area. Results: twenty-eight surfaces were analyzed, 12 of which were located in units occupied by patients at the time of collection and 16 surfaces in the common use area. In the total number of surfaces analyzed by microbiological cultures, the patient unit showed 66.67% contamination by microorganisms, while surfaces in the common area showed 56.25%. Regarding the microbiological profile, all isolated microorganisms were Gram-positive and showed resistance, namely Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus. Conclusion: there was evidence of a high frequency of contamination on inanimate surfaces and equipment near and far from patients, essentially by pathogenic and multi-resistant microorganisms to antimicrobials.(AU)

Justificativa e objetivos: superfícies e equipamentos inanimados no ambiente hospitalar são considerados reservatórios de microrganismos resistentes e patogênicos. Nas Unidades de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos, o risco de infeção também está relacionado com a gravidade das patologias associadas à imaturidade do sistema imunitário desta população. Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar a contaminação microbiológica ambiental em uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Pediátrica. Método: trata-se de um estudo exploratório transversal, realizado em uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Pediátrica de um hospital universitário de alta complexidade, localizado no Sul do Brasil. Para avaliar a contaminação ambiental, foram esfregados swabs estéreis nas superfícies correspondentes à unidade do paciente e na área comum. Resultados: foram analisadas vinte e oito superfícies, sendo 12 localizadas em unidades ocupadas por pacientes no momento da coleta e 16 superfícies em área de uso comum. No total de superfícies analisadas por culturas microbiológicas, a unidade paciente apresentou 66,67% de contaminação por microrganismos, enquanto as superfícies da área comum apresentaram 56,25%. Quanto ao perfil microbiológico, todos os microrganismos isolados eram Gram-positivos e apresentavam resistência, nomeadamente Staphylococcus aureus e Staphylococcus coagulase-negativa. Conclusão: houve evidência de elevada frequência de contaminação em superfícies inanimadas e equipamentos próximos e distantes dos pacientes, essencialmente por microrganismos patogênicos e multirresistentes aos antimicrobianos.(AU)

Fundamento y objetivos: las superficies y equipos inanimados del ambiente hospitalario son considerados reservorios de microorganismos resistentes y patógenos. En las Unidades de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos el riesgo de infección también se relaciona con la gravedad de patologías asociadas a la inmadurez del sistema inmunológico de esta población. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar la contaminación ambiental microbiológica en una Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos. Método: se trata de un estudio exploratorio transversal, realizado en una Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos de un hospital universitario de alta complejidad, ubicado en el sur de Brasil. Para evaluar la contaminación ambiental se frotaron hisopos estériles en las superficies correspondientes a la unidad de pacientes y en el área común. Resultados: se analizaron veintiocho superficies, 12 de las cuales estaban ubicadas en unidades ocupadas por los pacientes en el momento de la recogida y 16 superficies en el área de uso común. Del total de superficies analizadas por cultivos microbiológicos, la unidad de pacientes presentó un 66,67% de contaminación por microorganismos, mientras que las superficies del área común presentaron un 56,25%. En cuanto al perfil microbiológico, todos los microorganismos aislados fueron Gram positivos y presentaron resistencia, concretamente Staphylococcus aureus y Staphylococcus coagulasa negativo. Conclusión: se evidenció alta frecuencia de contaminación en superficies inanimadas y equipos cercanos y lejanos de los pacientes, esencialmente por microorganismos patógenos y multirresistentes a los antimicrobianos.(AU)

Photocatalytic and antifouling performance of titania-coated alumina membranes produced using a facile sol-gel dip-coating approach.

Photocatalytic membranes (PM) have been investigated as an antifouling strategy for membrane separation processes. Coating ceramic membranes with photocatalytic layers can provide a highly active surface capable of degrading foulants and smaller molecules improving the membrane's performance when the surface is irradiated by a suitable light. Nevertheless, the coating process often leads to pore blockage due to the formation or deposition of thick layers of photocatalyst on membrane surfaces, which modifies the original membranes' average pore size and reduces membrane permeability. A facile sol-gel dip coating process was used to produce PM without modifying the original surface morphology of alumina microfiltration membranes. A 3.7-fold increase in permeate volume after 90 minutes of permeation of an acetaminophen solution in continuous filtration mode under UV light (λ = 365 nm LED, 10W) using titania as photocatalyst compared to the bare alumina membrane without irradiation. Furthermore, fouling modeling proved a reduction in the fouling constant, while fouling mechanisms were not modified. Raman analysis showed 100% anatase formed on the membrane surface. Although membranes could remove up to 87% TOC for oily wastewater filtration, antifouling capabilities for this type of effluent were not observed for the photocatalytic membranes mainly due to fouling inside the pores and light attenuation due to the thick fouling layer on the membrane surface.

Frequency of anthropometric implausible values estimated from different methodologies: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

CONTEXT: Poor anthropometric data quality affect the prevalence of malnutrition and could harm public policy planning. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review and meta-analysis was designed to identify different methods to evaluate and clean anthropometric data, and to calculate the frequency of implausible values for weight and height obtained from these methodologies. DATA SOURCES: Studies about anthropometric data quality and/or anthropometric data cleaning were searched for in the MEDLINE, LILACS, SciELO, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases in October 2020 and updated in January 2023. In addition, references of included studies were searched for the identification of potentially eligible studies. DATA EXTRACTION: Paired researchers selected studies, extracted data, and critically appraised the selected publications. DATA ANALYSIS: Meta-analysis of the frequency of implausible values and 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated. Heterogeneity (I2) and publication bias were examined by meta-regression and funnel plot, respectively. RESULTS: In the qualitative synthesis, 123 reports from 104 studies were included, and in the quantitative synthesis, 23 studies of weight and 14 studies of height were included. The study reports were published between 1980 and 2022. The frequency of implausible values for weight was 0.55% (95%CI, 0.29-0.91) and for height was 1.20% (95%CI, 0.44-2.33). Heterogeneity was not affected by the methodological quality score of the studies and publication bias was discarded. CONCLUSIONS: Height had twice the frequency of implausible values compared with weight. Using a set of indicators of quality to evaluate anthropometric data is better than using indicators singly. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020208977.

Characterization of microbial ecology, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella sp. on equipment and utensil surfaces in Brazilian poultry, pork, and dairy industries.

This study aimed to evaluate the level of counting by indicator microorganisms, identify the microbial ecology, detect Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella sp., and determine the presence of virulence genes and biofilm formation. A total of 480 samples were collected from the surfaces of the equipment and utensils using sterile swabs for the detection of L. monocytogenes and Salmonella sp. and counting mesophilic aerobes, Enterobacteriaceae, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas sp. The microbial ecology was evaluated by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene. Genes for virulence and biofilm formation were analyzed and adhesion capacity was evaluated for L. monocytogenes and Salmonella sp. The mesophilic aerobe count was the highest in the dairy processing facility, followed by the pork and poultry slaughterhouses. L. monocytogenes was detected in all facilities, with the highest detection in the pork slaughterhouse, followed by the poultry and dairy facilities. Salmonella sp. was only detected in the dairy. Isolates of L. monocytogenes and Salmonella sp. showed poor adhesion to polystyrene surfaces, virulence genes, and biofilm formation. The frequent contaminants in the slaughterhouses were Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter, and Aeromonas in poultry, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, and Brevundimonas in pork, and Pseudomonas, Kocuria, and Staphylococcus in dairy. Our results provide useful information to understand the microbiological risks associated with contamination.

Quantification and molecular characterization of intact rotavirus species A (RVA) in municipal solid waste leachate.

AIMS: Leachate comprises a solid waste decomposition product found fresh in collection trucks or as an effluent in landfills. This study aimed to assess the occurrence, concentrations, and genetic diversity of intact rotavirus species A (RVA) in solid waste leachate. METHODS AND RESULTS: Leachate samples were concentrated by ultracentrifugation, treated with propidium monoazide (PMA), and exposed to LED photolysis. Treated and untread samples were extracted using the QIAamp Fast DNA Stool mini kit, and nucleic acids were screened for RVA employing a Taqman® Real-time PCR. The PMA RT-qPCR method detected RVA in eight out of nine truck samples and in 15.40% (2/13) of the landfill leachate samples. The RVA concentrations in the PMA-treated samples ranged from 4.57 × 103 to 2.15 × 107 genomic copies (GC) 100 mL-1 in truck leachate and from 7.83 × 103 to 1.42 × 104 GC 100 mL-1 in landfill samples. Six truck leachate samples were characterized as RVA VP6 genogroup I2 by partial nucleotide sequencing. CONCLUSIONS: The high intact RVA detection rates and concentrations in truck leachate samples indicate potential infectivity and comprise a warning for solid waste collectors concerning hand-to-mouth contact and the splash route.

Pb(II) Uptake from Polluted Irrigation Water Using Anatase TiO2 Nanoadsorbent.

The adsorption characteristics of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO2) for the removal of Pb(II) from irrigation water were investigated in this work. To accomplish this, several adsorption factors, such as contact time and pH, were tested to assess adsorption efficiencies and mechanisms. Before and after the adsorption experiments, commercial nano-TiO2 was studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The outcomes showed that anatase nano-TiO2 was remarkably efficient in cleaning Pb(II) from water, with a removal efficiency of more than 99% after only one hour of contact time at a pH of 6.5. Adsorption isotherms and kinetic adsorption data matched the Langmuir and Sips models quite well, showing that the adsorption process occurred at homogenous sites on the surface of nano-TiO2 by forming a Pb(II) adsorbate monolayer. The XRD and TEM analysis of nano-TiO2 following the adsorption procedure revealed a non-affected single phase (anatase) with crystallite sizes of 9.9 nm and particle sizes of 22.46 nm, respectively. According to the XPS data and analyzed adsorption data, Pb ions accumulated on the surface of nano-TiO2 through a three-step mechanism involving ion exchange and hydrogen bonding mechanisms. Overall, the findings indicate that nano-TiO2 has the potential to be used as an effective and long-lasting mesoporous adsorbent in the treatment and cleaning of Pb(II) from water bodies.

Beach litter in three South American countries: A baseline for restarting monitoring and cleaning after COVID-19 closure.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused that most countries established the closure of many beaches, affecting the scientific monitoring of thousands of coastal sectors. This article shows the status of beach litter in South America before and after COVID-19 closure. The data were obtained during the years 2019, 2020 and 2022 on 25 beaches using a technique BLAT-QQ. The results show that cigarette butts were the most frequent type of litter, meanwhile Brazil should improve cleanliness of general gross litter and gross polystyrene. Colombia gross vegetation litter and small vegetation litter, and Ecuador organic litter from animals. The results shown in qualitative and quantitative manner facilitate their understanding for managers, scholars and activists interested on beach litter monitoring. This baseline is useful to analyse regional and worldwide marine litter trends with the purpose to start or restart monitoring of tourist beaches from a science-based method.

Impact of the final agitation system in the irrigant diffusion inside the root canal: A micro-CT analysis.

This study evaluated, through micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), the volume of irrigant diffusion by different techniques of final agitation. Sixty mesiobuccal canals were scanned in a micro-CT and standardised according to the volume. They were instrumented with the MTwo 40/04 system and using the Terebrix 35 contrast solution as irrigant, were divided into six groups (n = 10): Conventional irrigation with syringe and needle (CI), EndoActivator (EA), EasyClean (EC), RinsEndo (RE), Utrasonic agitation (UI) and XP-Clean (XP). A second micro-CT scan was performed and the total irrigant volume and in the final 3 mm apical were determined. The data were analysed using the Anova, Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests (p < 0.05). UI and XP showed a higher percentage of total diffusion than CI, EA and RS groups (p < 0.05). In apical diffusion, there was no significant difference between groups (p > 0.05). The final agitation system increases the diffusion of irrigating agents inside the root canal.

Monitoring of surface cleaning and disinfection in a Brazilian pediatric unit.

Background: Understanding the correlation between the methods of monitoring surface cleaning and disinfection (SCD) is fundamental for better infection control. Purpose: This study aims to correlate the SCD monitoring methods in a Brazilian pediatric unit. This is an exploratory, longitudinal, and correlational study. Methods: The study was conducted in a pediatric hospitalization unit of a medium-sized hospital from December 2020 to March 2021. Four high-contact surfaces were analyzed before and after the cleaning and disinfection process by means of visual inspection, quantification of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and colony-forming unit (CFU) count. The study consisted of three stages: stage I involving situational diagnosis of the SCD process; stage II referring to the implementation of the Surface Cleaning and Disinfection Standardization Program (SCDSP); and stage III involving long-term assessment after implementing the program. A total of 192 assessments were performed in each stage, totaling 576 in the three study stages. Conclusions: A significant correlation was found between the ATP quantification methods and microbial count in the bed railing (p = 0.009) and companion's armchair (p = 0.018) surfaces. In both cases, Spearman's correlation coefficients were positive, indicating a positive correlation between ATP and microbial count scores, that is, the higher the ATP values (in RLUs), the greater the microbial counts (in CFUs/cm2). The analysis of the ROC curves suggests that the surfaces presenting ATP below 108 RLUs can be considered approved. The ATP method yielded 78.6% sensitivity; in turn, microbial count presented a sensitivity of 85.7%. It is important to use different methods to monitor the cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, as each one has different sensitivity and specificity.

Comparative life cycle assessment for the manufacture of bio-detergents.

The increasing consumption of cleaning products deteriorates water resources due to harmful components such as phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) compounds, oils, bleach, and acids, typical compounds in traditional detergents. The use of biodegradable detergents as an environmentally friendly alternative has been proposed in different regions. In Colombia, resolution 1770/2018 sets a minimum biodegradability rate of 60% for the surfactants present in liquid detergents, which would reduce to a similar extent the impacts on water after their use. However, the environmental impacts of the supply chain of these detergents and their raw materials have not been evaluated so far. This study presents an environmental life cycle assessment of petroleum-based liquid detergents and a comparison to traditional solid detergents, based on the ISO 14040 standard and the ReCiPe-2016 impacts assessment method. A novel bio-detergent containing anionic plant-based surfactants was proposed in this analysis. The impacts of packaging and the distribution of the product to consumers were also considered. Raw materials contributed to 91% of the total of 314 g of CO2 eq generated per liter of liquid detergent, where the production of fatty alcohol sulfate and PET packaging shared 78.8% and 12.2% of the total impact, respectively. It was also determined that 5.4 L of water are consumed and 0.09 g of P eq and 0.1 g of N eq are emitted per liter of detergent. This liquid detergent presented better environmental performance than traditional detergents in all the impact categories, except for the fossil resource scarcity category. The evaluated detergent would significantly mitigate the generation of negative effects on ecosystems. Moreover, the substitution of PET for HDPE packaging could reduce the impacts on freshwater eutrophication by 10%, although the carbon footprint can slightly increase, which could be compensated due to its higher recyclability rate. In contrast, the proposed bio-detergent would not have significant benefits and would negatively affect water consumption and land use in its supply chain.